A NOIR EVENING WITH VINTAGE LIFE LA

Author: Stefanie Bautista

If you’re a vintage lover, whether young or old, Los Angeles has a new vintage meet-up for you! Strut your stuff with other locals in a lowkey, fun way at Vintage LA’s bi-monthly get-togethers. Usually held at a bar or restaurant, this latest gathering on Saturday, February 9, 2019, at The Prince LA was great. Individuals from all parts of Southern California came and made connections with one another through their mutual admiration for all things vintage.

Outside of this event, a limited amount of vintage meetups are available. The big three: Dapper Day at Disneyland, Viva Las Vegas in Las Vegas, and Tiki Oasis in Palm Springs, are so spread apart that any chance for another gathering will catch a lot of attention.

Many people, including us at People of Con, heard about the event via Facebook. A simple invite with an address, a spiffy image of a 1940s dame, and a promise to dress to impress lured about 2000 interested followers. Though sparse information was provided on the event, the buzz spread like wildfire.

Upon arriving at the historic building in which The Prince restaurant is located, you immediately walk down a narrow stairway that leads to the bar/restaurant area, where you are transported back in time. Originally founded as the Windsor Inn in 1927, the restaurant was recently made popular as the interior bar featured in New Girl.

Paintings of baroque-style portraits line the walls of the restaurant, which is separated into two sections, along with a private room in the back. Dimly lit, with red wallpaper, wood panel detailing, and large leather booths with red leather tables create the signature feel. A piano adorns the space’s center, doubling as a great backdrop for photos.

Located in Koreatown, this local eatery has a full bar and menu of delicious and affordable Korean dishes. They have signature cocktails modeled after the historic building and its surroundings, such as the Brown Derby and The Prince Special Cocktail.

The ever-so-accommodating hosts of the event reserved a section ahead of time for those in attendance. People flowed into the hideaway dressed in all eras, from the 20s to the 60s. Due to the cold weather, people seized the opportunity to break out their fur coats and sharpest headwear. True vintage pieces were worn, and modern vintage outfits were displayed. Guests mingled and networked, sharing vintage styling tips and connected through social media accounts.

The dim lighting, dazzling jewelry, and gentlemen sporting their 3 piece suits created a snapshot similar to a Raymond Chandler adaptation. The atmosphere in the room was lively with conversation and laughter, capping off a perfect chilly night with a touch of cinema noir.

As the night drew close, the lovely hosts thanked everyone in attendance. This sealed the deal for People of Con to be regulars at this bi-monthly meet-up.

The next second Saturday will take place on Saturday, April 13th, 2019. To learn more about the bi-monthly gatherings and additional vintage events, follow Vintage Life LA on Facebook.

Follow People of Con on Instagram to see where we dress up for next!